Analysts suggest that the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will primarily address mechanisms for expanding Israel’s regional influence, despite reports indicating a focus on the next phase of the Gaza agreement and potential renewed strikes against Iran.
The meeting comes after 77 days of a ceasefire agreement which Israel continues to violate. Reports indicate over 400 Palestinians have been killed and over 1100 injured, along with a continued refusal to open border crossings and allow aid as stipulated in the Trump plan. With progress on the agreement’s second phase stalled, Netanyahu, currently facing scrutiny from the International Criminal Court, is scheduled to meet with Trump in Miami on Monday. There are reports of growing discontent among US officials regarding Netanyahu’s conduct, which they view as hindering the agreement.
This marks Netanyahu’s fifth visit to the United States since January. According to Israeli broadcaster Kan, discussions are expected to revolve around initiating the second phase, disarming Hamas, establishing a technocratic committee to administer Gaza, forming an international stabilization force, and a partial Israeli withdrawal from the territory.
Former US State Department official Thomas Warrick anticipates that Netanyahu will seek US approval for renewed strikes against Iran and continued military operations in Lebanon and Gaza. Warrick, speaking on a current affairs program, expressed his belief that Trump would reject a new strike on Iran or Lebanon, but potentially approve continued operations in Gaza.
Disagreements Remain
Warrick suggests that disagreements between the US and Israel regarding the method of disarming Hamas are unlikely to be resolved during Netanyahu’s visit. While the meeting is expected to ease some tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv, significant issues regarding the implementation of the Gaza plan will likely persist.
DZWatch will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
